Fake doctor on classifieds fraud charges

A man lured car sellers on online classifieds website Gumtree by pretending to be a doctor before stealing the vehicles, police claim.

The 23-year-old man is facing several charges including 12 counts of fraud totalling $100,000 and six counts of stealing after being extradited from Melbourne to the Gold Coast on Wednesday.

Police claim the man responded to adverts claiming to be a doctor, even dressing up as one when he would go to inspect vehicles.

He then made claims about depositing money into victims' bank accounts by showing them a fake bank receipt, it is alleged.

Detective Senior Sergeant Jay Notaro said the case was a warning for people buying or selling items via the internet.

"One of the most important things to remember is only proceed with the sale if the buyer has the exact cash amount agreed upon their possession or you have actually received the money in your nominated bank account," Det Snr Sgt Notaro said.

"Also ensure you sight and photograph relevant photo identification before completing any transaction."

In 2013, police reportedly claimed 250 calls were being received a week about scams on Gumtree.

In August this year a Cairns man, Daniel James Strachan, 40, was given a four-year jail term after pleading guilty to setting up multiple fake ads on the classifieds website and defrauding people of almost $87,000.